This program, in commemoration of the International Day of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which is celebrated on Saturday, June 27, promotes the development of SME suppliers through technical support, specialized training and tools to strengthen their competitiveness, boost their growth and expand their business opportunities.
With the purpose of bringing the local offer closer to consumers, the company provided its facilities for small businesses to present their products. As an example of this continuous effort, an edition of this market was recently held at Walmart Norte, which is added to the event held during the month of May at Walmart Naranjo.
“The purpose of the Mercaditos PyMEs is to provide a comprehensive growth platform for our suppliers. Likewise, we seek for our customers to enjoy the quality of local products and connect with the Guatemalan families that make them. We invite people to support these companies, since by consuming and recommending our products, we contribute to the development of the entire community,” said Luis Arturo Ramírez, deputy manager of Corporate Affairs at Walmart Guatemala.
The next SMEs Markets will be: July 17 and 18 at Walmart Villa Nueva, September 11 and 12 at Walmart Puerta Parada; and Nov. 27 and 28 at Walmart Roosevelt.
To ensure a direct benefit to producers, Walmart assumes 100% of the expenses associated with the physical space, the assembly of the stands and the logistics. In addition, it coordinates entertainment activities for visitors. In this way, participating companies can concentrate their resources and efforts on tasting their products, interacting with buyers and sharing the story of their brands.
A region-wide effort
For Walmart, supporting local producers is a priority in Central America. For this reason, during this year a total of 33 SME Markets are planned to be held in the different countries of the region. More than 30 local companies will participate in these activities, giving them an excellent opportunity to show and sell their products to thousands of customers.
In addition to the stores, Walmart also organizes these markets in its headquarters and Distribution Centers (CEDI). In this way, the company’s own associates can approach, learn about and buy the items from these small companies.
With initiatives such as the Mercadito PyMEs, Walmart continues to open spaces that promote business development, strengthen local production and generate new opportunities for small businesses to grow and reach more Guatemalan families.